Postdoctoral in microbial metabolism, diet and cardiometabolic diseases

We are seeking an ambitious and dedicated researcher for a 2-year postdoctoral position in the field of microbial metabolism and experimental animal models for cardiometabolic diseases (CMD). The Postdoc will be part of the Research group for Gut, Microbes and Health at DTU National Food Institute. We investigate how diet and environmental factors in the gut affect the composition and activities of the gut microbiome, and how this, in turn, affects health. The research is furthermore part of the virtual research center Microbiome Health Initiative (MHI), funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, aiming to establish a potential causal link between the gut microbiome and cardiometabolic diseases (CMD).

The research project will focus on identifying and characterizing novel biosynthetic pathways for microbially-derived molecules and understanding how microbial molecule production can be modulated for disease prevention and therapeutic benefit. Using a combination of computational approaches and experimental models, the work will investigate how targeted regulation, through diet, of gut microbial functions and microbial metabolites can influence host metabolism. These concepts will be explored and validated across a range of established animal models relevant to metabolic and cardiometabolic diseases.

Responsibilities and qualifications
As part of the Research Group for Gut, Microbes and Health and the Microbiome Health Initiative, you will collaborate with a diverse group of researchers with expertise across multiple aspects of microbiome research, both within DTU National Food Institute, in Denmark, and with international partners. Thus, we expect you to have a solid background in microbiology and experimental animal models, together with a broad and in-depth understanding of microbial metabolism and the enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of microbially derived molecules. Hands-on experience within vitro testing, microbiological assays, and gut microbiome and metabolome analyses is essential. The ideal candidate is ambitious, highly motivated, and able to work independently, with excellent written and spoken English skills. Experience with animal experimentation for cardiometabolic disease and dietary interventions is required, while experience with sequence-based analysis of bacterial communities and chemical characterization of microbial metabolites (e.g. LC-MS/MS) is considered a strong advantage

Required skills and additional responsibilities include:

• Strong expertise in microbial metabolism and cardiometabolic disease, with experience in computational and in vitro methods for studying host-microbe interactions.
• Extensive experience in designing, conducting, and analyzing animal experiments using both small and large animal models of cardiometabolic disease.
• Conduct independent research projects, from initial conception and design through to completion.
• Communicate research results: presenting data at national and international conferences and meetings, writing reports and manuscripts for publication.
• Supervise BSc and/or MSc students and potentially PhD projects. Contribute with teaching in educational course(s).

Having prior experience with some, or all, of the listed responsibilities will be reviewed favorable.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The starting date is 1 June 2026 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.

The period of employment is 2 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Senior Researcher and Head of Research Group, Martin Steen Mortensen on  masmo@food.dtu.dk.

You can read more about DTU National Food Institute at DTU National Food Institute.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 6 March 2026 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply now”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.